15 Tips for New Dads (From a Dad in the Trenches)

Parenting advice is everywhere and sometimes its hard to parse what are helpful tips for new dads vs unhelpful. As a dad of a 3 week old baby boy I have scoured reddit and other websites to distill down some essential information in short digestible bites for you to consume. These tips covers everything from poop to laundry and will help you understand what you are up against. Don't be alarmed - you will learn fast and your baby won't care how bad your first diaper change was.

Tips for New Dads

1. There’s Poop Everywhere

You’re going to be hands-deep in poop. Constant diaper changes will become your new reality, and you might even find yourself changing a diaper while a poop happens. Get ready for it, get used to it—you’ll be okay!

2. Also, Pee…

If you’re graced with the gift of a newborn boy, watch out for the firehose. Cover that thing, or it will cover you. Regardless, you’ll be dealing with a lot of pee diapers, and just like with poop, it may happen mid-change. My son even peed on a decorative vinyl record of Elton John we had hanging on the wall in his room. A “rocket man” of sorts.

3. Spit-Up Happens—A Lot

One thing I had to get used to was the sheer amount of spit-up that comes with a newborn. It’ll get on your clothes, your floor, your couch, and probably your bed. Do yourself a favor and stock up on burp cloths.

4. Save Your Favorite Shirt for Going Out

It’s inevitable—your shirt will get puked on. Don’t wear your favorite one unless you’re prepared for stains. If you’re heading out, pack a backup shirt so you can at least look like you’ve got your sh** together.

5. The Umbilical Cord Stump Is Weird (But Temporary)

Our little guy’s umbilical cord stump fell off in week two. It can be a bit annoying to fold the diaper down to keep it from rubbing, but it’s a short-lived stage. Bonus: once it falls off, you’ll get to experience your baby’s first bath—a nerve-wracking but sweet milestone. Just keep track of the stump when it falls off; we found ours on the floor during dinner hours later.

6. Babies Are Scary

Newborns are fragile—but not as fragile as you think. Don’t overthink it. My first diaper change was a disaster (literally and figuratively), and changing his clothes felt like a comedy sketch. There’s no perfect way to hand off a baby, either. Just keep practicing—you’re doing great.

7. Learn the One-Arm Baby Hold (or Buy a Wrap)

Mastering the one-arm baby hold is life-changing. Whether it’s the colic hold or reverse-colic, freeing up one arm allows you to multitask. Better yet, invest in a baby wrap carrier. It’ll free both your hands so you can do laundry, dishes, clean, cook, or even brush your teeth.

8. Diaper Changes: A Quick Guide

Gather your essentials: wipes, a clean diaper, and diaper cream.
Clean thoroughly: Check the folds and lift appendages (if it’s a boy—check everywhere).
For boys: Always point the penis down to avoid leaks.
Secure the diaper snugly.

9. Buy Diapers with a Wetness Indicator

In the early weeks, it’s sometimes hard to tell if a diaper is wet. Diapers with a wetness indicator are game changers for tracking poops and pees to ensure your baby is eating enough. We liked Pampers Pure, but any brand with an indicator will make life easier.

10. Laundry Happens Constantly

Since your newborn will spit up constantly (see #3), you’ll be doing laundry all the time. Baby clothes, swaddles, your clothes—it’s all fair game. Did I mention spit-up?

11. Sleep Is… Different

Your sleep schedule will change. You won’t sleep through the night consistently, but it’s not as terrifying as some people make it out to be. You’ll wake up to help feed, change, or burp your baby. Pro tip: burp them before laying them down to reduce nighttime spit-up.

12. “Sleep When the Baby Sleeps” Doesn’t Work

This advice sounds nice, but it’s rarely practical. My wife and I work in shifts, taking turns so one of us can grab some extra rest when needed. Find a system that works for your family.

13. Your Partner Needs Extra Love

Your partner just performed a miracle. They’re recovering, likely under immense pressure to breastfeed, and probably more sleep-deprived than you. Step up:

Keep their water bottle full.
Help with meals and laundry.
Be patient and kind—they’ve earned it.

14. Put Burp Cloths Everywhere

We bought these cotton muslin burp cloths and stashed them everywhere: the bedroom, nursery, couch—everywhere. When spit-up happens (and it will), you’ll want one close at hand.

15. Baby Poops and Farts Are Hilarious

Every single poop or fart cracks us up. Random unintentional smiles are equally joyful. It’s tough, but these little moments will bring you more joy than you’ve ever known.

Final Thoughts

Parenting is hard but rewarding. Hopefully, this list gives you a laugh or some useful tips. You’re doing an amazing job—don’t forget to prioritize your needs, too. Those first few weeks can be overwhelming, but you’ve got this!